As the second week of our Hemlock Woolly Adelgid treatment concludes, we are filled with gratitude and awe for the collective spirit that has made this journey possible.
Over seven dedicated days, the heartbeats of between 3 to 15 volunteers resonated each day with the rhythm of the forest. Their commitment was further amplified by the enthusiasm of three classes of students from the local high school, who not only lent their hands but also opened their hearts to the teachings of the land.
Here’s a glimpse of our collective achievements:
- Approximately 14 hectares at Asitu’lɨsk have felt the touch of our care.
- Around 3,100 majestic hemlocks will continue to stand tall, having been shielded from the looming threat.
- While this week saw us navigating through fewer areas with fewer volunteers, the lands we treaded held immense ecological significance. The old-growth stands of huge hemlocks beckoned us, demanding more time and attention, but the rewards were profound. The very essence of these ancient trees, their stories and wisdom, have been preserved.
Though our pace was deliberate, our intent was clear – to protect and honor the spaces that hold deep ecological and cultural resonance. The initial week had us focusing on mixed stands near the buildings and main trails, but this week, we ventured deeper, ensuring the heart of Asitu’lɨsk remains vibrant and intact.
In the dance of unity and hope, every hand that reached out, every footstep on the forest floor, and every prayer whispered to the trees has woven a tapestry of resilience and reverence. We are more than just stewards; we are the embodiment of a legacy, ensuring that the songs of the hemlocks continue to serenade generations to come.